Betfacts / Andrew Hughes / 14 April 2009 /

They might sound like a brand of cheap cigarettes but Andrew Flintoff's huff and puff will add a new dimension to the Chennai Super Kings, says Andrew Hughes.

Performance Last Time

The Super Kings had something of a rollercoaster tournament, winning their first four games, and then losing three in a row, before getting back on track and qualifying for the semi-finals in third place. They overcame Punjab to reach the final, but were pipped by Rajasthan off the last ball in a memorable game. Though their bowling was solid and economical, it was the depth of their batting that made the difference. It was a particularly impressive batting effort, given that star names Matthew Hayden and Michael Hussey were only available for four games each.

Captain

Mahendra Singh Dhoni

Three Key Players

All-rounders are very nearly priceless in Twenty20 cricket and the signing of Andrew Flintoff was a major coup. Providing he remains fit, his clean hitting and aggressive bowling will add a new dimension to Chennai's challenge, at least for the time he is with the squad. Matthew Hayden averaged an astonishing 63 from four innings last time and his availability for the whole of the 2009 tournament is a bonus for the Super Kings. And in the absence of Michael Hussey, the talented Suresh Raina will step into the key position at number three.

Strengths

The depth of Chennai's batting is impressive and gives them the ability to chase down pretty much any target. And whilst Dhoni's leadership might lack the instinctive flair that Shane Warne brings to the job, he is adept at putting people at their ease. His calm, controlled style breeds confidence and enables players to relax under pressure.

Weaknesses

If you were to be ultra-picky, you could suggest that once Flintoff returns to England, their bowling doesn't look quite so threatening. More will be expected of the likes of Albie Morkel and Jacob Oram this time around, in supporting Makaya Ntini and Murali.

Prospects

It is no surprise to see that Chennai are the current favourites to win IPL 2009 and it is difficult to argue with odds of [5.3] in the tournament winners market. Their squad was already a good one and with the addition of Flintoff, it looks mighty impressive. Dhoni is one of the best captains around and he has plenty of batting firepower at his disposal. With few obvious weaknesses, it would be a major surprise if the Super Kings did not finish in the top four and qualify for the semi-finals.

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